SHANGHAI: Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim says recent actions by Negri Sembilan Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Ismail Lasim and the state executive councillors involving the institution of the Rulers were completely unacceptable.
"What I find most unreasonable is that the Mentri Besar and exco made the decision. This is an uncivilised and disrespectful move, and I strongly object to it.
"Since when do they have the mandate to question the position of the Ruler?" the Prime Minister told Malaysian media while travelling by high-speed train to Hangzhou to continue his three-day working visit to China, which began Tuesday (Sept 22).
Anwar said he did not understand the actions taken by the Mentri Besar and exco on several matters involving the institution of the Rulers, which had sparked controversy in Negri Sembilan.
"That can still be discussed and revoked, but I cannot imagine a Malay leader bringing a motion to remove a Malay Ruler. I cannot accept that at all," he said when commenting on the controversy in Negri Sembilan.
He also reminded all parties that the country's key institution, namely the institution of the Malay Rulers, must continue to be preserved and upheld.
Anwar said any differences in opinions and views, as well as disputes, could be raised as long as they were channelled through the proper avenues.
On Tuesday, a special meeting of the Negri Sembilan state executive council (MMKN) decided to suspend the duties of State Secretary Datuk Mohd Zafir Ibrahim and State Legal Adviser Datuk Muzalmah Mustapha Kamal, with immediate effect.
"So, I want to stress that, to me, what they did is a serious offence, and as for the federal government, if you ask about its jurisdiction, we abide by the Constitution.
"If you tarnish and violate the Constitution, we will defend it. If I lead this country, I want to ensure that the Constitution is respected. I want to ensure there is no disrespect, including questioning the position of the Ruler," said Anwar.
The controversy in Negri Sembilan has resulted in a constitutional impasse over the position of the Yang di-Pertuan Besar, Tuanku Muhriz Tuanku Munawir. - Bernama
